BROCKHAM Badgers U15A were hard done by as they fell to a 4-0 defeat in a closely-fought game with Billingshurst.
The Badgers started the game without their regular goalkeeper and two of their team took on the role in what was a must-win game for the Badgers to lift them out of the relegation zone.
The weather was extremely cold and the players were slow to get going, although Billingshurst started slightly stronger as they are a more physical team.
Billingshurst took the lead when the ball was launched into the box and a stray player picked it up,
Andrew Kensett deflected the first shot, but unfortunately straight to another Billingshurst player, who tapped the ball into the net.
Billingshurst again drove the game forward to the Badgers goal but excellent defending saw them off.
Andy Kehl made a good chase followed by Joey Korsah. Badgers grabbed their opportunity and ran with the ball, but the referee's whistle led to another shot at the Badgers goal, which was saved by Kensett.
A free kick was then given to Billingshurst inside the penalty box but they missed the opportunity as the half-time whistle blew with the score at 1-0.
Badgers started the second half strongly, but could not find the net.
At the other end, Charlie Edwards made some great saves, but unfortunately he conceded a penalty, which was put in the bottom right corner.
Badgers got back in the game, moving the ball, tackling boldly and charging at the goal.
But despite their determination they weren't getting enough opportunities on goal and weren't able to place the ball in the net.
With the Billingshurst midfield swarming the defence, it was an uphill task and despite Badgers' valiant efforts, they conceded two more goals.
They fought bravely but ended up losing 4-0 in a devastating finish, in what was a much more closely fought game than the score board suggests.
